Inclusion & Diversity Committee
Inclusion & Diversity Committee
An inclusive and diverse research community doesn’t happen by accident, but grows from everyday actions that make people feel seen, supported, and able to thrive. At the VIB‑KU Leuven Center for Neuroscience, our Inclusion & Diversity Committee turns these values into concrete initiatives that strengthen belonging across the center.
We create welcoming spaces through community lunches, spark dialogue and empathy with movie nights, and make learning accessible through our book‑sharing program. We celebrate the richness of our community with our annual Diversity in Science Week, and we amplify underrepresented voices through art projects co‑created with our members. We also support colleagues directly by developing resources for neurodivergent scientists and by aligning our efforts with broader commitments such as the ALBA Declaration for Diversity & Equity in Brain Sciences.
Together, these initiatives help ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not abstract ideals but lived experiences in our daily scientific environment. Contact us at idc.leuven@vib.be to participate or collaborate.
Initiatives
Community Lunches
Our community lunches offer a welcoming space where people can share a meal, connect across differences, and build relationships that strengthen inclusion and belonging.
Community Bookshelf
Making diversity and inclusion easily accessible to our community through book sharing.
Movie Nights
Our movie nights bring people together to watch films that highlight different identities and perspectives, sparking conversations that foster empathy and understanding.
Visiting Mural Artist
We organized a community-designed art project to symbolize our commitment to DEI.
Neurodiversity Guide
Committee member Meine Ramakers created a resource for neurodivergent colleagues. Download the PDF or contact us to request an ePub version!
Diversity in Science Week
We organize a week-long event each year to celebrate the richness of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences within our scientific community.
Morning Rave
We organize morning raves with coffee and music to help you energize early in the day.
Committee Members
Diversity in Science Week
In November 2023 we hosted our first ever Diversity in Science Week, complete with a journal club, lecture, discussion, silent disco happy hour, and visiting guest artist Júlia Mota Albuquerque!
We have signed the ALBA Declaration towards Diversity & Equity in Brain Sciences.
Our Center have signed ALBA's declaration, indicating our committment to fostering fair & diverse scientific communities. The Inclusion & Diversity Committee refers to this document as a resource for concrete, positive, evidence-based actions to promote equity & inclusivity in our organization.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at VIB & KU Leuven
The VIB‑KU Leuven Center for Neuroscience is committed to fostering a research environment where diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to scientific excellence. Both VIB and KU Leuven share the belief that a thriving academic community is one in which people of all backgrounds feel respected, supported, and empowered to contribute their perspectives. Through institute‑wide policies, training, awareness efforts, and structural initiatives, they work together to remove barriers, promote equal opportunities, and build a culture where everyone can belong. Their shared commitment strengthens not only the wellbeing of the community, but also the quality and impact of the science it produces.